Correlates of family planning uptake among married men in Nyakach sub-county of Kisumu county, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Male involvement in family planning includes contraceptive use, supporting partners’ decisions, peer influence, and advocacy for male-centered policies. Despite evidence that men positively influence contraceptive uptake, progress in rural Kenya remains limited. This study aimed to determine the correlates of family planning uptake among married men in Nyakach sub-county, Kisumu county, Kenya.

Methods: Using Fischer’s formula, a sample of 404 respondents was obtained. A cross-sectional descriptive design with cluster sampling was employed, drawing participants from community health units in Nyakach. Data was collected using structured questionnaires, then cleaned and analyzed using microsoft excel and SPSS version 26. Results were presented as tables, frequencies, and percentages. Associations were tested using the chi-square test at a significance level of p=0.05.

Results: Education level was significantly associated with preference for healthcare providers (χ²=8.12, df=3, p=0.044). Cultural factors strongly influenced uptake (χ²=12.45, df=1, p=0.0004), with 45.8% preferring large families, 39.6% perceiving family planning as a woman’s responsibility, and 29.2% fearing stigma. Health system barriers—including limited male-specific methods (50%), long distances to facilities (33.3%), and inadequate information (29.2%)—also showed significant association (χ²=15.67, df=2, p=0.0004). Only 35.4% were aware of government policies, yet awareness significantly influenced uptake (χ²=10.23, df=1, p=0.0014).

Conclusions: Targeted, male-focused interventions are needed. Programs should strengthen education through providers, community actors, and media; address cultural norms through community leadership engagement; and enhance policy awareness tailored to men’s needs to improve uptake.